Lunar New Year Tet and traditional values in the technological era
WVR - Amidst constant change, Lunar New Year Tet retains its values of reunion and sharing, offering a chance for self-reflection and deeper listening.
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| Keeping a slow pace for Tet amidst a hurried life. (Photo: Phuong Quyen) |
The value of Tet in modern life
In the relentless flow of modern life, human activities seem to become increasingly hectic. The end-of-year days are no longer leisurely as in the memories of many generations. Gone are the weeks of family bustling to prepare sticky rice, dong leaves for wrapping banh chung, and countryside gifts from the year-end market. A quick trip to the supermarket or traditional market, brimming with goods, can now suffice for Tet preparations.
From one perspective, this abundance is a result of development. Modernity makes shopping easier, reducing the burden on homemakers. No more crowding or worrying about shortages. With a plan and a reasonable budget, Tet can be prepared more leisurely than before.
Yet, amidst this convenience, people sometimes miss the slow pace that once flavored Tet. They reminisce about the family cleaning the house together, airing out wooden furniture, and replacing old curtains. They remember the year-end afternoons when mothers went to the market, fathers meticulously tended to kumquat trees and peach branches, and children eagerly awaited new clothes and lucky money. As preparations become easier and shorter, people gain more free time but risk losing the bonding moments created during those preparations.
Lunar New Year Tet today also changes in how people send greetings and visit each other. Phone calls, messages, and social media wishes have become common. In a flat world, geographical distances seem to blur. With a few clicks, New Year wishes can easily reach loved ones; images of peach blossoms, apricot trees, and joyful reunions are widely shared online.
This connectivity is commendable. It helps those far from home and family feel less lonely during the transition from old to new year. However, many wonder if a screen message can completely replace a handshake, a hug, or a warm gaze in person. Technology offers convenience, but direct human presence carries its own weight, the weight of emotions conveyed through genuine care.
Along with changes in Tet greetings, there is a shift in Spring celebration choices. Many traditional games and Tet paintings face the risk of being forgotten. Urban children might be more familiar with modern amusement parks than tug-of-war, hopscotch, or shuttlecock kicking...
Instead, travel has become a popular trend in recent years. Many young families visit new places during Tet holidays, enjoying a gentle Spring celebration that broadens horizons and refreshes emotions. Though costly, for many, it's a reward after a year of hard work. They choose to welcome the new year with new experiences rather than just gathering in familiar spaces.
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| Amidst the whirlwind of work, technology, and online relationships, Tet can be a pause for us to slow down and listen more. (Photo: Phuong Quyen) |
Tet as a time for personal adjustment
It's undeniable that each choice reflects a legitimate need of modern life. The important thing is not whether Tet follows a fixed pattern but whether its spirit is preserved. Traditional Tet is a time for warmth, reunion, sharing, and love, primarily within the family.
Among countless modern choices, perhaps the core essence should be retained. A meal with all family members present, an unhurried conversation, a direct wish to grandparents and parents—these may be simple but fulfilling.
When the early days of the year are embraced with lightness and sincerity, that joy quietly accompanies us. A Tet that's too noisy, too financially pressured, or too busy with formal gatherings can exhaust people from the start of the new year. Conversely, a fulfilling yet simple Tet leaves a lingering, cherished aftertaste.
Life is full of hardships, and almost everyone carries beautiful Tet memories. It could be the scent of incense wafting through a small house, the laughter of relatives, the red envelopes in children's hands, and the joyous laughter. These memories are the energy that helps people find their footing amidst modern chaos and financial pressures.
Thus, Tet is also a time for personal adjustment. Amidst the whirlwind of work, technology, and online relationships, Tet can be a pause for us to slow down and listen more.
Keeping a slow pace for Tet doesn't mean rejecting new conveniences or denying modern trends. It's a reminder that whether at the supermarket or traditional market, whether sending Tet wishes by phone or in person, whether at home or on a travel journey, the essence of Tet remains in the emotions.
Perhaps everyone needs a joyful yet gentle Tet. When each family chooses a way to celebrate Tet that is just right, warm, not ostentatious or wasteful, the traditional Tet flavor will continue to thrive in modern life...
